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Luxury Madrin Hotel – Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá

The luxury Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá hotel in Madrid is a member of “The Leading Hotels of the World.” The property is located on the site of what was once one of the most important convents in Europe in the 13th century. Plus, the Convent of Santo Domingo became the official 19th century palace residence of the Dukes of Granada.

In the artistic and cultural heart of Madrid, the luxury hotel is a short walk from some of the most important monuments in Madrid. Yet, the Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá maintains the character and elegance of the original structure. Plus, it combines vintage splendor with a delicate contemporary sensibility.

The Palacio de los Duques offers 140 elegant and exquisitely designed rooms. In addition, there are 40 Red Level rooms and suites. Red Level is a boutique hotel experience within the hotel. As a result, hotel guests will enjoy a private check-in and check-out, butler service and a private á la carte breakfast.

There is a spacious lounge area with a private garden area. Continuing, try the in-room aromatherapy menu and get complimentary Wi-Fi. Also, the luxurious Thai Room Wellness brings a little piece of Asia to the heart of Old Madrid. There is Burmese lacquer, Tibetan art and Chinese antiques. Plus, enjoy pampering from expert Thai therapists.

Palacio de los Duques boasts several uniquely different, yet magical culinary destinations. Within the gardens of the hotel, Dos Cielos is a private restaurant that will be one of Madrid’s most amazing restaurants. Award-winning chefs, the Torres Brothers, use only the best ingredients and the most exclusive products.

Vinoteca Montmartre Restaurant combines French and Spanish culinary traditions. For example, the inspiration comes from the design of the Universal Exposition of 1889 in Paris. Hence, dine on incredible food, along with a e journey through the wine-making regions of both countries.

In the heart of the hotel is the Coroa Royal Gallery & Garden. Guests will enjoy morning delicacies, tempting tapas and fantastic cocktails. High above the hotel’s Historic Garden, sits one of Madrid’s most unique rooftop pools. The 360-degree views of the city are spectacular. Therefore, view magnificent sunsets, and indulge in drinks and light snacks.

The Life of Luxury can help you plan and reserve your next luxury trip. We offer deals to top destinations around the world.

The Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá luxury hotel should be on top of your places to stay in Madrid, Spain. Enjoy a VIP experience and takes in all the incredible sights of Madrid.



Italian Cuisine Experiences Are More Popular Than Ever

Italian cuisine experiences continue to gain in popularity. Italian cuisine is often considered the best in the world. Italians are definitely very proud of this. Therefore, it is a strong identifying symbol for the country of Italy. Furthermore, Italian cuisine experiences are quite popular and are now a growing tourist attraction.

The latest Report on Italian Food and Wine Tourism cites that the number of Italians who made a trip with food and wine as the primary reason keeps rising. It is 58% in 2023 and compares to only 21% in 2016. The current value of foodie travelers is an estimate of 9.6 million people. About 1 in 3 Italian tourists have a larger budget for the purchase of food and wine tourism offers, than in 2022.

Across Italy, travelers will find unique flavors and numerous culinary traditions. For example, some are famous and loved by people around the world. Italians feel the regions of Sicily, Emilia-Romagna and Campania offer the best food and wine. Plus, the most popular cities are Naples, Bologna and Rome.

Italian Cuisine Experiences for Travelers

Additionally, there are many other regions to try Italian cuisine experiences. Each offers traditional foods and dishes. Interestingly, meals are prepared with recipes handed down from one generation to the next. From Tuscany to Puglia, from Piedmont to Calabria, from Veneto to Liguria, from Marche to Abruzzo, up to Friuli Venezia Giulia and Trentino Alto Adige. The choices for Italian cuisine experiences are endless.

Italian cuisine experiences

The best way to tour Italy and discover Italian culinary excellence is travelling by train. There are hundreds of daily connections provided by Trenitalia. As a result, every part of the country can be reached in a quick, comfortable and sustainable manner.

Be sure to see the people and places that celebrate Itay’s culinary heritage. Immerse yourself in Italy’s numerous food, wine, culture and of course cooking experiences. For example, a truly memorable Italian cuisine experience is a stay in Tuscany.

Take in the local sights and amazing views of the Tuscan mountains. It is a relaxing environment that allows you to absorb the local traditions. You can visit nearby vineyards and explore quant and historical villages. For example, visit Chianti for Tuscan wines and Montepulciano for the area’s incredible red wines. Plus, see San Gimignano and try their famous white wines.

Of course, cooking classes are a must. Try making traditional Tuscan dishes, covering your main meals to delicious desserts. Enjoy the amazing tastes of Tuscan flavors at a variety of local restaurants.

You will quickly notice that each region of Italy boasts incredible food and wine choices to discover. There isn’t a better way to appreciate these traditional products than to taste them where they are produced. Only then, can you appreciate the unique experiences to the fullest.

The Life of Luxury can you help you plan and book your unforgettable trip to Italy. We work with True Italian Experience to provide the best Italy has to offer.

We hope you enjoy reading about the popularity of Italian cuisine experiences. Plana trip to Italy and the discover the many Italian food and wine traditions.



Avanspettacolo Venezia – New Year’s Eve Grand Gala in Venice, Italy

This New Year’s, celebrate in VIP style in Venice, Italy. The Avanspettacolo Venezia dinner theater was founded in 2014, from an idea of entrepreneur Mauro Furlan. He is very passionate about both art and travel.

Furlan loves travel and art. He visits internationally renowned cabarets around the world. Interestingly, he finds them a place for local people and tourist attractions for global travelers. Thus, what emerges is his gift to Venice. A cabaret that combines entertainment, art and tradition. As a result, Avanspettacolo Venezia is born.

Avanspettacolo Venezia is popular with both local and international guests. The artistic and culinary offering is top notch. Be treated to a grand magic show with talented, musical performers and dancers.

Each evening, you will enjoy an incredible night out. Dine on a multi-course international dinner with Italian wine. Continuing, choose from three different menus. Plus, your dinner includes a welcome cocktail.

Avanspettacolo Venezia diner theater - Venice, Italy

New Year’s Gala

On December 31, 2023, be part of enjoy the most exclusive New Year’s Eve Grand Gala in the magical city of Venice, Italy!

– Starting at 07:30 pm to 08:30 pm, guests enter the Magical Atmosphere with the Welcome Drink.
– At 08:30 pm you will taste the Culinary Delicacies of the cabaret’s Gala Dinner. It is accompanied by the Preshow of our Master Pianist.
– Then at 09:00 pm, enjoy the International Variety Grand Show Magic. It will definitely enchant you with scenographies, costumes, lights and colors. In addition, there will be many professional artists.
– As New Year’s arrive at midnight, your memorable evening continues with live music and dancing.

The New Year’s Gala costs €300.00 per person. It includes a Welcome Drink + Gala Dinner with seafood menu + Grand Show Magic + After Show.

For €350.00 per person, dine at a VIP table with great show views. Included is a bottle of Champagne for two people – New Year’s Gala with Welcome Drink + Gala Dinner with seafood menu + Grand Show Magic + After Show.

The Life of Luxury can help you plan and book your trip to Venice, Italy and purchase dinner theater tickets. Please contact us for the best luxury travel experience.

We hope you enjoy reading about the upcoming New Year’s Eve Gala at the Avanspettacolo Venezia cabaret in the Venice, Italy.



5 Fun Things to Do in Vienna, Austria

Any visit to the Austria needs to include the capital city of Vienna. Take time to explore Vienna and its great history. Be sure to visit some of Europe’s great palaces, art museums and churches. Vienna is rich is in culture and next to the historic River Danube. In addition, the city dates back to a Roman era settlement

Learn about the life of the Hasburg dynasty with a trip to the Hofburg Palace. Be sure to visit the Kunsthistorisches Museum. Hence, you will learn about the great European artists. Also, visit the cities many churches, such as the great St. Stephan’s Cathedral.

5 Fun Things to Do in Vienna, Austria

In the evening, take in a concert at the Schonbrunn Palace. Not allow you can you tour the palace, but also experience the music of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Johann Strauss. This is a definitely a Bucket List event for sure. You can also enjoy a nice dinner, as an added bonus to this unforgettable event.

1) St. Stephen’s Cathedral – (photo above)

St. Stephen’s Cathedral is an impressive Catholic church. You can find it in Stephansplatz, in the center of Vienna. It is the most recognizable church in Austria’s capital. In addition, you will recognize the church’s colorful roof. It can be seen from almost any place in the city. Be sure to take in stunning views of Vienna from the 450 feet high tower.

When the church was constructed more than 800 years ago, it was built outside the city. The original plan included two towers. The unique unbalanced look is simply due to a lack of funds to complete the construction. Thus, the reason there is only one impressive tower. Sadly, during World War II, St. Stephen’s Cathedral was severely damaged. Luckily, a comprehensive reconstruction project took place.

Vienna Opera House

2) Vienna State Opera

Built in the 1860s, the Vienna State Opera is one of the greatest and most famous opera houses in the world. It is the location of countless musical concerts, ballets and operas.

Don’t miss out on one of its well-known shows, while in Vienna. The impressive Vienna State Opera presents Vienna State Opera House Mozart Concert in Historical Costumes.

3) Hofburg Palace

The Hofburg Palace in Vienna provides an authentic view into the daily life of what was once the center of the powerful Hasburg dynasty. The family ruled the mighty Austria-Hungry empire. At the time, the house of Hasburg was one of the most important dynasties in all of Europe. Some of the kings ruled Western Europe for several decades, beginning in the 15th century.

Today, the Hofburg palace hosts some very interesting museums. These provide a unique opportunity to learn traditions and history of the imperial court.

Stadtpark Vienna - Johann Strauss statue

4)Stadtpark

This lovely 65,000 square meter park is on the edge of the old city of Vienna. Thus, it’s a terrific location to enjoy an afternoon break. The lush, green lawn is amazing. As a result, the park is offers many sculptures to see up close. For example: Franz Lehar, Robert Stolz and Franz Schubert. Of course, the most famous of them all, is the stunning bronze monument of Johann Strauss II. He is the composer of famous “The Blue Danube” Waltz.

5)The Belvedere Palace

The Belvedere Palace is one of the best examples of baroque architecture in Europe. In addition, the palace serves as a great museum. Interestingly, the property is made of two palaces. First, is the upper palace. It is the more popular one. It displays the richness of the architectural invention of that time. View the the incredible decor decorations within the palace are of the finest rococo interiors examples to be found in Europe.

The museum mostly hosts Austrian artists. Their works start as early as the Middle-Ages and Baroque periods. Then up to the Fin de Siècle and the Art Nouveau periods. Plus, you will find works from famous artists such as like Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele. A must see for any art lover.

Contact The Life of Luxury to assist with your next luxury travel getaway. We can plan and book your entire itinerary. Plus, we have access to countless VIP events all around the world.

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Enjoy Summer at These 5 Fun Festivals in Germany

Germany is well known for its popular festivals and events. Festivals in Germany give tourists a chance to experience a taste of German culture, tradition, and art at its very best. Of course, Christmas markets are a wonderful part of the German holiday tradition. But during the summer, Germany offers a variety of fun and amazing festivals.

Rhine in Flames

On five nights between May and September, villages, landscapes, castles and parks in the state of Rhineland-Palatinate shine bright. Enjoy a fascinating firework display that illuminates the majestic Rhine River. Plus, about 75 festively decorated ships move in convoy along the river. The high-altitude fireworks delight spectators on the river and land alike. Since each of the Rhine in Flames locations have their own unique characteristics, it makes for a special experience.

Wine Week Wiesbaden

Between August 11 and 20, Wiesbaden transforms into a dream destination for wine lovers. There will be over 100 booths to taste various wines. In addition, three large stages will feature an extensive music program. Come visit the longest wine counter in the world in Wiesbaden, near Frankfurt. Starting in 1976, the Wiesbaden Wine Festival” is a success each year.

Canstatter Volksfest

The 176th Cannstatter Volksfest in Stuttgart is rich in tradition. This festival in Germany is not only the biggest in Baden-Württemberg, but it also has one of the greatest funfairs in all of Europe. It is a family-friendly event with numerous attractions. Enjoy this massive beer festival. The large midway and homewares market include many large beer tents and multiple eating and drinking locations.

Reeperbahn Festival

Starting in 2006, the Reeperbahn Festival is one of the most important meeting places for the music world. For four days in September (20-23), more than 350 live concerts take place in and around Hamburg’s St. Pauli neighborhood. Plus, the music and culture of this popular event is amazing.

The Bayreuth Festival

Every summer, Bayreuth hosts one of the most prestigious classical music festivals in the world. It is proudly dedicated to a single composer – Richard Wagner. From July 24 – August 2, 2023, music lovers experience a variety of open air concerts. The classic music and heritage of Richard Wagner remain alive today. It all started in 1876, when Wagner first performed his “Ring des Nibelungen” song.

It’s summer! Make a trip to Europe and enjoy the many festivals in Germany. Return soon to read about the top, luxury travel destinations in the world.



Five Fun Things to Do in Paris, France

Visiting Paris, France has long been a “Bucket List” item for most world travelers. Paris has so much to offer and provides visitors a wide range of both city tours and activities. Often called “The City of Light” due to its stunning boulevards and bridges. Today, there are almost 300 illuminated sites in Paris. For example, churches, hotels, fountains, statues, national buildings and of course monuments.

Yes, the city can get expensive. Yet, there are many free things to do. Can visit some of the beautiful public gardens, like Jardin des Tuileries, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont or Jardin du Luxembourg. In addition, admire the religious architecture of Sacré-Cœur, Saint-Genevieve and Sainte-Chapelle for free. Plus, be sure to see the iconic Moulin Rouge.

There’s no way you’ll get to see all the city’s museums, shops, attractions and districts. Therefore, it is important to plan your own itinerary and experience Paris on your own terms. Yet, don’t miss out on other notable city jewels. These include the Luxembourg Gardens, Musée d’Orsay or Le Marais. Enjoy a relaxing walk along the iconic Champs-Élysées.

With so many options to choose, we are sharing five fun things to do in Paris

Arc de Triomphe

(photo above)
Located at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, the towering Arc de Triomphe was commissioned by Napoléon. The monument honors the Grande Armee during the Napoleonic Wars. Interestingly, the impressive arch is the largest of its kind in the world. You will notice several impressive, intricately carved sculptures. Underneath the arch, travelers will find the names of the battles fought during the first French Republic and Napolean’s Empire. Plus, view names of the generals who fought in them.

Plus, travelers will also find the famous tomb of The Unknown Soldier. The unknown soldier currently buried there is meant to represent all the unidentified or unaccounted for soldiers who lost their lives during World War I. The eternal flame lit when the soldier was laid to rest, has not extinguished since. This occurred in the 1920s. In addition, climb to the top of the famous arch and take in the mighty Paris panorama.

Notre-Dame Cathedral

Worldwide news covered the devastating fire at the famous Notre-Dame Cathedral. On April 15, 2019, the cathedral sustained major damage. For example, its wooden roof and spire collapsed. As a result, the cathedral remains closed to the public until further notice. Plans are for it to reopen in December 2024. In the meantime, visitors can peruse a new exhibit – “Notre-Dame de Paris: at the heart of the construction site.” This free exhibit highlights the ongoing construction work at the site. In addition, see remains from the fire and works of art from the cathedral.

Similar to the Eiffel Tower, the Notre-Dame Cathedral is definitely a Parisian icon. It sits along the picturesque River Seine. Notre-Dame Cathedral is considered a Gothic masterpiece and considered as one of the best Gothic cathedrals of its kind in the world. Construction of the famous cathedral began in the late 12th century. Yet, final touches were not made until nearly 200 years later.

Sacred Heart Basilica of Montmartre (Sacre-Coeur)

Rising high above Paris, the Sacré-Coeur (meaning “Sacred Heart”) looks more like a white castle than a basilica. It towers over the eclectic neighborhood of Montmartre. This masterpiece is easily recognized by its ornate ivory domes. The basilica’s interior is quite impressive. For example, its ceilings glitter with France’s largest mosaic. Beautifully, it depicts Jesus rising alongside the Virgin Mary and Joan of Arc. Lastly, be sure to take in the stunning, panoramic views from atop the Sacré-Coeur’s outdoor staircase.

Eiffel Tower

Constructed for the 1889 Exposition Universelle (the World’s Fair), the Eiffel Tower was always meant to be a temporary structure. Gustav Eiffel is chief architect of the Eiffel Tower. A variety of scientific experiments were done on the tower with the hope that any discoveries would help prolong its lifespan.

Versailles Palace (Chateau de Versailles)

Last but not least, the Versailles Palace, is a former seat of power and located 10 miles southwest of Paris in Versailles. Each year, nearly 10 million travelers make the trip from Paris to see Chateau de Versailles. Enjoy all of the gold figurines, dramatic frescoes and cascading crystal chandeliers. Surprisingly, King Louis XIV’s extravagant former residence has pretty humbled beginning. His father, King Louis XIII favored the site for its hunting potential. The original brick and stone lodge was quite modest.

The Life of Luxury can help you plan and book your next luxury vacation. It’s a big world out there, with so much to see and do.

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Bavaria, Germany – The World’s Oldest and Biggest Accomplishments

Bavaria is a paradise for world travelers. Located in the southern region of Germany, Bavaria is quite diverse. From story-book castles to the scenic Alps and fertile Danube plain. But Bavaria not only has several beautiful and famous sites but also holds numerous world records through its 2,000-year history. The region is proud to claim many of the world’s oldest and largest accomplishments.

The largest state in Germany is more than beer, pretzels and lederhosen. It offers stunning landscapes and amazing cities that exude a cultural distinction. Visitors will find beautiful and rugged mountain scenery. Plus, food lovers will discover magical, culinary flavors suit all palates. In addition, one can celebrate countless ancient customs to this day.

Discover intriguing stories about times past. Bavaria’s has a remarkable history. With these stories, impressive and unique historic accomplishments become apparent. For example, learn about the determination, creativity and strength of Bavaria and its people as a culture and lifestyle. Yet, there is more just below the surface. Bavaria is proud to boast several world records. Below are just a few of them.

World Records

1) Oldest Social Housing: Augsburg is Bavaria’s third largest city and by far the oldest with over 2,000 years of history. Its impressive stream and canal system earned the city on the Romantic Road the coveted title of UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019. Augsburg’s most famous son is Jakob Fugger. 500 years ago, the richest man in the world. With his “Fuggerei“, he created a unique monument to charity. In 1521, he signed the charter for the construction of a housing estate in which Augsburg citizens in need, could receive dignified accommodation. Hence, creating the first official social housing in the world. To this day, it still remains the oldest of its kind.

2) Largest Cathedral Organ: Located in the city of Passau, the organ inside St. Steven’s Cathedral is the largest organ in the world. There are 17,974 pipes and 233 registers. Therefore, international travelers need to visit the “City of Three Rivers” and see the amazing cathedral organ. Also, between the months of May and October, enjoy an organ concert.  They take place every day at 12:00pm and every Thursday at 7:30pm.

3) Largest Continuous Ceiling Fresco: The ceiling fresco in the staircase of the Würzburg Residence (photo above) is the largest continuous ceiling fresco in the world. Measuring 19 m x 32 m and restored by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo. He’s the greatest fresco painter of the 18th century. Due to the vaulting, its surface area covers 677 m². Once the former residence of the prince bishops of Würzburg. The residence was built between 1720 and 1744 and completed in 1780. Interestingly, it is one of the most important palaces in Europe. In addition, it has been designated a UNESCO world heritage site.

4) Largest glass roof: The transparent acrylic glass pavilion roof of the Munich Olympic Stadium at the Olympia Park is amazing.  The roof was specially designed and built for the 1972 Summer Olympic Games. Also, it measures 85,000 m². Thus, it is the largest glass roof in the world. Today, visitors can book a tour and climb to the glass roof of the stadium. The Olympia Park and Olympic stadium offer many different events throughout the year. Therefore, it is the ideal place to unwind and enjoy the outdoors in magical Munich.

The Life of Luxury can help you plan and book your luxury vacation to Bavaria, Germany. See the top destination sites, including the world record places referenced above.

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5 Amazing Cities to Visit in Germany

There are so many cities to visit in Germany. How do you choose which ones to add to your travel list? The European country of Germany has a long, but not always a favorable history. Germany’s many regions provide travelers a wide variety of distinct and rewarding experiences. You can find almost whatever you need – beautiful scenery, great architecture, exciting nightlife, lively festivals, delicious cuisine and much more!

We want to share 5 amazing cities to visit in Germany. First is Duesseldorf, the city by the Rhine river that attracts many visitors through its fun lifestyle and fashion. Leipzig, the city of music, which was home to many famous composers, like Bach and Mendelssohn. Nuremberg, with its historic sights and traditions. Munich, the city that needs no introduction. Last but not least Stuttgart, a must-see for any car enthusiast.

Duesseldorf – Fashion Hub

Duesseldorf is the fashion capital of Germany, and known to set trends. Not only is it home to 800 designer showrooms, it is also lined with many exclusive boutiques, especially at its famous Koenigsallee. Duesseldorf’s Old Town is known to be more unconventional with many restaurants and bars that keep the party going until the early morning.

Leipzig – Music to My Ears

Leipzig lives and breathes music. Its most famous landmarks include the two opera venues, Gewandhaus Orchestra and Leipzig Opera, and it is also the home of the St. Thomas Choir, one of the world’s oldest boys’ choirs. Fun fact: composer Richard Wagner was born in Leipzig and went to university there.

Nuremberg – History Abound

The Germanic National Museum in Nuremberg is a must-see! It is the largest museum of cultural history in the German-speaking region, and contains 1.3 million fantastic exhibits that entertain and educate visitors. Don’t forget to grab a traditional Nuremberg sausage while in town, which has been enjoyed there since the 14th century.

Munich – The Heart of Bavaria

It is no secret that Munich is one of the most beautiful cites in Germany, and a top travel destination. Especially in the summer, the city produces a lifestyle that isn’t easily found anywhere else. Explore the city by bike, relax in one of the many beer gardens, discover beautiful sights and landmarks, like the Marienplatz, and try all of the traditional and new delicatessen.

Stuttgart – Car City

For many people, the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of Germany is cars. The famous Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart is the only museum in the world to present the history of the automotive industry from start to finish. But why stop there? The beautiful Porsche Museum is also located in Stuttgart and hosts more than 80 unique vehicles.

Are you ready to travel to Germany? We hope this article helps you choose which cities to visit in Germany. We offer luxury travel services to the best travel destinations in the world. In addition, we provide a wide variety of VIP experiences. For example – red carpet award shows, fashion events, music festivals, art shows, movie premiers, sporting events and more!




World’s Tallest Wooden Hotel – Sustainability in Swedish Lapland

The world’s tallest wooden hotel is made almost exclusively from wood and is now open for guests everywhere. The Wood Hotel can be found at the birthplace of cross-country skiing, Skelleftea in Swedish Lapland. The new hotel is part of a five-day and four-night Wood Hotel Experience from Off the Map Travel adventure travel specialists. The VIP experience is a mix of sustainability and nature in a beautiful setting.

The world’s tallest wooden hotel is designed for enjoyment in the forested area of northern Sweden. Welcome are both couples and families. They will experience the hotel along with local adventure and gastronomy. Available from December to March, the Wood Hotel Experience begins with an overnight stay in Stockholm. Next, take a flight to Skelleftea. Once there, guests will be transferred by electric car to the Wood Hotel.

Alex Minnis from Off the Map Travel states, “This is an opportunity for sustainability-minded visitors who search out ‘neo luxury’ looking for culture and escapism all wrapped into one comfortable, climate-sensitive package. Being made out of wood contributes to the building’s being climate-positive as the structure absorbs more CO2 than it uses. It also contributes to comfort and personal well-being, reducing stress and improving sleep.”

The new Wood Hotel stands 75 meters tall. In addition, it has 20 stories and is made almost entirely from spruce and pine sourced from the neighboring forests. Also, it dominates the local skyline. But it seamlessly fits into the town’s natural beauty with its wood construction. The world’s tallest wooden hotel has 205 contemporary rooms. Each is filled with the rich, warm smell of the trees they are built from. In addition to a rooftop spa, the hotel has three stunning restaurants. For example, dine at an Italian café, an Asian restaurant and one with locally sourced, Sami-inspired food.

As part of the experience, guests will create their own gin at Skelleftea’s award-winning distillery. Thus, you will use locally foraged ingredients. Guests can also choose to go snowshoeing to take in the sights of this beautiful part of Swedish Lapland. Later, relax in the hotel’s Vana Spa with its saunas and outdoor pool. Enjoy panoramic views over Skelleftea and its forests. In winter, the new itinerary is perfect for guests to experience the Northern Lights. Take a self-guided walk with well-marked trails that depart directly from the hotel.

Full Itinerary:
1st Day – Arrive in Stockholm and stay overnight in the city
2nd Day – Fly from Stockholm to Skelleftea Airport for an electric car transfer to The Wood Hotel
3rd Day – Lunch at Gin Distillery followed by gin making
4th Day – Morning snowshoeing and afternoon at the hotel’s panoramic Spa
5th Day – Return to Stockholm

A luxury VIP stay at the world’s tallest wooden hotel is priced from £2045 per person (about $2500 USD. The five-day / four-night Wood Hotel Experience itinerary includes all accommodations, daily breakfast, one lunch and gin making, snowshoeing and the rooftop spa. Please note, both flights and travel insurance are additional. Plus, the package can be customized to include excursions such as cross-country skiing.

We hope you enjoy reading about world’s tallest wooden hotel in Skelleftea – Lapland, Sweden. Follow us to read about the latest, luxury travel news.

Photo: Wood Hotel




Enjoy the Holidays – 4 Festive Christmas Markets in Germany

Germany comes to mind when people think of a traditional Christmas market. Many of the most beautiful Christmas markets are located in Germany. Hence, the holiday season in Germany is always enchanting with countless Christmas markets.

Germany has many beautiful cities to visit during the holiday season. Enjoy the rich culture and tradition of Germany, while visiting this amazing country during Christmas. Therefore, we want to share with our readers 4 festive Christmas markets: Baden-Baden, Trier, Lübeck and Görlitz.

Baden-Baden, Baden-Württemberg

Can’t get enough of Christmas? The market in Baden-Baden stays open until January 6th. It offers live performances for the whole family. Look forward to the great variety of market stalls, an enchanting fairy tale street, a carousel, extraordinary gourmet igloos, and much more!

Trier, Rhineland-Palatinate

From November 11, 2022, until December 22, 2022, the oldest city in Germany, Trier, is hosting one of the most spectacular Christmas markets. Visitors can experience different activities daily. For example, they range from historical puppet theater to star tenors or figureheads of the regional music scene.

Plus, in Trier’s Old City, visit its stunning cathedral. It is the perfect backdrop for the little village of Christmas booths. Also, Trier is where the “Mulled Wine Queen” resides and takes the throne yearly for the holiday season.

Lübeck, Schleswig-Holstein

Breathe in clear winter air combined with the smell of roasted almonds and fried pastries. Next, drink popular mulled wine as you stroll through the stalls around Lübeck’s Town Hall. This Christmas market has a long tradition in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lübeck. First, it is mentioned in records dating back to 1648. Even today, the historic buildings form the perfect setting for the lively pre-Christmas festivities at the market.

Görlitz, Saxony

The Silesian Christmas Market in Görlitz features special church services reminding visitors of the meaning of Christmas. It invites visitors to sing traditional Christmas carols, and the local choirs frequently perform, contributing to the festive atmosphere. Between magnificent trading houses from Renaissance and Baroque, accompanied by the scents of spices, almonds, and incense, almost 100 merchants and artisans offer their goods.

The Life of Luxury can help you plan and book your holiday season getaway. We offer amazing luxury travel and VIP experiences in the world. Please contact us today!

Are you ready to visit Germany and experience the many Christmas markets? Many of the most beautiful Christmas markets anywhere are located in Germany



German Fairy Tale Route – Hanau, the Birthplace of the Brothers Grimm

Most people remember hearing about fairy tales while growing up. Now you can participate in real-life one in Germany. The German Fairy Tale Route begins in the city of Hanau, known for the birthplace of Brothers Grimm. To mark the official starting point, you will find an impressive monument honoring both Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm. The monument is located on the market square Neustädter Marktplatz.

Is traveling to Germany on your bucket list? You likely have dreams of enchanted castles, scenic, alpine views and a rich culture, but yet a dark and troubled history. Now you can enjoy a VIP experience and enjoy the best Germany has to offer by following the German Fairy Tale Route.

The German city of Hanau is world famous for being the birthplace of the famous Grimm brothers. The two publishers – Jacob and Wilhelm created many of the most popular and well-loved fairy tales. For example, they wrote Hansel and Gretel, Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Sleeping Beauty and Rapunzel.

Hanau, Germany - Brothers Grimm statue

Therefore, the city of Hanau is also the start of the Deutsche Märchenstraße (German fairy-tale road). This scenic route leads a few hundred kilometers across Germany to Bremen in the north.
Hanau’s location on the junction of the rivers Main and Kinzig invites you to enjoy some beautiful river scenery. Plus, not far from the river junction, is the romantic castle Phillipsruhe and the picturesque suburb Kesselstadt.

From there, the unique route leads across five other stations in the lives of the famous brothers. For example, view more than fifty places that celebrate fairy tales and legends all the way to Bremen. There the sculpture of the Bremen Town Musicians in front of the Ratskeller marks the end of the journey.

On a final detour to Buxtehude, the route leads through various natural and cultural landscapes. Visit remote villages, cozy half-timbered towns and urban cultural centers. Plus, you will pass through the GrimmHeimat NordHessen. Legendary castles and fairytale palaces, enchanted forests await. See the famous Weser River, mystical places of legend and countless fairytale fountains line the German fairy tale route.

With a length of 477 kilometers, the scenic Weser River is the longest river in northwest Germany. It begins at the confluence of both the Fulda and Werra rivers in Hannoversch Münden. Also knows as Hann. Münden. The upper section of the Weser river runs through the Lower Saxony region of the Weser Hills. Continuing, the lower and tidal sections of the river below Bremen, flow through marshes, bogs and Geest. Geest describes the slightly raised landscape of sand and gravel soils, along with shrubby vegetation.

To view the Fairy Tale interactive map, please click here: https://www.deutsche-maerchenstrasse.com/en/route/our-route/map

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